Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman denies he left Riqui Puig on the bench for victory over Levante due to disparaging press claims.

Going into the game, it was alleged that Koeman had accused Puig of being a dressing room mole earlier into the season.

After victory over Levante, Koeman was asked if he was finding it difficult to trust the midfielder.

"No, far from it. I know there are things in the press. I do not want to answer. Riqui had been warming up because the match was complicated with 0-0," he said.

Koeman also said: "When four of five away games are lost, the criticism is fair. We create many opportunities, worse we lack effectiveness."